GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Chevrolet 🢒 2009 🢒 Colorado Pickup - 2WD 🢒 Features and Controls 🢒 Doors and Locks 🢒 Tailgate

Caution: It is extremely dangerous to ride on the tailgate, even when the vehicle is operated at low speeds. People riding on the tailgate can easily lose their balance and fall in response to vehicle maneuvers. Falling from a moving vehicle may result in serious injuries or death. Do not allow people to ride on the tailgate. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a safety belt properly.


Object Number: 1240981 Size: B3

Open the tailgate by pulling up on the outside handle while pulling the tailgate down.

When the tailgate is shut, be sure it is latched securely.

On vehicles with a locking tailgate, use the ignition key. Turn the key counterclockwise to lock the tailgate. Turn the key clockwise to unlock the tailgate.

Removing the Tailgate

To remove the tailgate:

  1. With the tailgate fully open, lift up slightly on the entire tailgate assembly.

    2. Object Number: 1240381 Size: A3

    Remove the retaining cables from both sides of the tailgate by pulling the clips away from the bolt heads while pushing the cable bracket forward. When the larger part of the hole on the bracket is over the bolt, slide the bracket off of the bolt.

  2. With the tailgate partially down, lift up on the passenger side and pull the tailgate toward you, then move the tailgate to the right to release the driver side. You can then remove the entire tailgate assembly.

Reverse the procedure to reinstall the tailgate. Make sure it is secure.

To partially lower the tailgate:

  1. With the tailgate fully open, lift up slightly on the entire tailgate assembly.

    2. Tailgate Partially Down
    Object Number: 1240418 Size: A3

    Remove the retaining cable from the passenger side of the tailgate by pulling the clip away from the bolt head while pushing the cable bracket forward.

  2. When the larger part of the hole on the bracket is over the bolt, slide the bracket off the bolt.
  3. Slide the lower end fitting onto the top bolt. The tailgate will now stay in the partially opened position.
  4. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 for the driver side.

If you would like to close the tailgate, the bracket cannot be in the partially opened position. Use the top position on the bracket to anchor it on the bottom bolt.